Empty Combat Boots Tribute to Honor Fallen Heroes

859 soldiers have died since the war began in 2001

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Military families and peace activists are lining up more than 800 empty combat boots near the White House to protest the war in Afghanistan and honor those who have died.

The group Military Families Speak Out and the American Friends Service Committee began the demonstration Saturday at the Ellipse. They are lining up boots representing 859 soldiers who have died since the war began in 2001, based on their latest casualty count.

Spokeswoman Stacy Hafley says the boots will be on display all day Saturday and most of Sunday. The groups plan to hold a candle light vigil all night.

Larry Syverson of Richmond, Va., whose son is serving in Afghanistan, says Americans are turning against the war. Rather than increasing troops, he says President Barack Obama should bring the troops home.